(SportsRadio 610) -- Astros third base coach Gary Pettis, who is recovering from multiple myeloma, will join the club during the regular season rather than spring training, the team announced Thursday morning.
Pettis in a statement said doctors recommended this change due to some potential logistical issues caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
"I'm doing very well, but my doctors felt that due to some potential logistical issues caused by the ongoing pandemic, it made sense for me to continue with my treatments here at home," Pettis said. "They are being cautious with me, which I understand. I'm doing great and will be back with the ballclub, but it will be later than we had thought."
Pettis, who's been the Astros' third base coach since 2015, left the team last year late in September after being diagnosed with multiple myeloma. He reunited with the Astros in October to watch Games 6 and 7 of the American League Championship Series against the Tampa Bay Rays in San Diego from one of the suites in the ballpark.
Astros general manager James Click said while it is disappointing not to have Pettis in camp as anticipated, the team is encouraged by his progress.
"Undertaking the workload of a Major League schedule – especially when compounded by a pandemic – is a lot for any of us and obviously Gary's health is paramount. We're going to continue to keep him fully engaged with our team while he's away and we can't wait for him to rejoin us in person."
Pitchers and catchers begin spring training workouts at the West Palm Beach, Florida facility Thursday morning.
